The Hundred 2025 draft took place on March 12, and no Pakistani players were selected, highlighting ongoing availability issues and limited slots. The influx of IPL investments raises concerns over the participation of Pakistani players. The overlapping international schedule contributes to franchises’ reluctance to sign these players, maintaining a pattern of limited representation in the league.
The recent draft ahead of The Hundred 2025 took place on March 12, resulting in no Pakistan players being selected. Among the women’s draft, five Pakistani players registered, while 45 participated in the men’s draft. It was not particularly surprising that the women’s players, including Aliya Riaz and Fatima Sana, were not chosen due to limited overseas slots. However, the absence of any men’s players from the selection was unexpected given the larger pool available.
The ongoing changes within The Hundred, particularly the introduction of outside investments from franchises, are noteworthy. The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has invited investments from entities, including IPL owners, raising concerns about a potential unofficial ban on Pakistan players, similar to experiences in other leagues like South Africa’s SA20, where no Pakistan players have participated thus far. Despite these concerns, ECB chair Richard Gould recommended that the participation of Pakistani players would remain unaffected.
Historically, Pakistan representation in The Hundred has been weak, with Usama Mir making the most appearances at 13 matches in 2023 and 2024. Other players, such as Haris Rauf and Shaheen Shah Afridi, have also participated but to a limited extent. The lack of signings this year can be attributed to scheduling conflicts with Pakistan’s international matches. The ICC Future Tours Programme indicates that Pakistan will play several series during The Hundred’s period, leaving franchises reluctant to select players who may withdraw.
As The Hundred is scheduled from August 5 to August 31, it clashes with Pakistan’s tour in the West Indies and a series against Afghanistan, which has led franchises to avoid selecting Pakistani players. Franchises have attempted to mitigate past experiences of player withdrawals, prominently illustrated by Shaheen Shah Afridi’s choice to withdraw last season due to family commitments, where he later pursued opportunities in a different league.
In summary, no Pakistani players were selected during The Hundred 2025 draft primarily due to limited overseas slots for women and strong availability concerns during the tournament. The influence of IPL investments further complicates the situation, alongside historical representations. Ultimately, ongoing international commitments for Pakistan cricketers have deterred franchises from considering them, marking a continuation of their limited presence in The Hundred.
Original Source: www.wisden.com
